Kenneth Koch

Kenneth Thomas Koch, 81, died Sunday, Jan. 12 at his residence in Theodosia, Mo.

He was born in Marble Fall, Texas, one of 13 children to William and Kate (Heine) Koch.

In 1940 his family moved to the Oakdale/Escalon area, where he graduated high school. He was an Oakdale resident for several years. In July 1951 he joined the United States Air Force. He proudly served his country for four years.

Mr. Koch worked for many years in California for the local Iron Workers Union. He moved to Missouri in 2003 and built his home overlooking Bull Shoals Lake. He had been a resident of Theodosia, Mo. ever since.

He is survived by his significant other, Sandra Knutson of Theodosia, Texas; daughters, Rhonda Burkett of Heavener, Okla., Michelle Koch of Waterford; son, Perry Koch of Meridian, Idaho; two sisters; three brothers; six grandchildren; and seven great-grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his parents, William and Kate Koch; and seven siblings.

The Oakdale (Calif.) Leader

Feb. 5, 2014